Proposal & Content Manager

McGuireWoods LLP•Berwyn, IL

9h•Hybrid

About The Position

McGuireWoods LLP is seeking a Proposal & Content Manager to join their team in the Chicago, IL office. This role serves as a strategic advisor within the Marketing & Business Development department, responsible for leading high-stakes pursuits and enhancing the firm's market presentation. The manager will collaborate closely with attorneys and Business Development to formulate pursuit strategies, manage complex RFPs and cross-practice pitches, and deliver clear, persuasive, client-focused proposals that drive new business. The position requires strong writing skills and operational rigor to translate complex legal and business concepts into compelling, client-aligned narratives. The Proposal & Content Manager will also lead continuous improvement within the pursuit function by refining processes, advancing best practices, and leveraging technology and AI to increase efficiency and results. As a trusted advisor on pursuit strategy and content, this individual will position the firm to compete more effectively and capture growth opportunities. McGuireWoods, a leading law firm established in 1834, offers excellent benefits and a hybrid remote option, promoting flexibility and work-life balance.

Requirements

5+ years of experience writing in a proposal environment
Bachelor's degree or higher
Extensive experience with dataset/content management tools
Very strong writing, editing and communication skills
Ability to meet deadlines managing multiple tasks
Strong attention to detail
A pursuits professional with 5+ years of experience managing complex proposals in a law firm or professional services environment
A persuasive communicator and storyteller who can distill technical legal and business issues into client-centered, compelling narratives
Experienced in the full pursuit lifecycle, including competitive RFPs, cross-practice submissions, and global panel processes
Skilled at balancing big-picture strategy with operational discipline, ensuring both creativity and flawless execution
Technologically fluent, confident using tools and platforms to drive efficiency, speed, and quality
Analytical and data-driven, capable of developing insights and recommendations that inform firmwide strategy
Collaborative, resilient, and able to thrive in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment
Willingness and desire to work with innovative technology platforms

Nice To Haves

Law firm marketing experience preferred
Degree in Journalism, Marketing, Communications, English or similar field of study preferred
Proficiency in Microsoft and Google applications a plus

Responsibilities

Lead RFPs and high-stakes pursuits: Take ownership of the firm’s most complex RFP responses, cross-practice pitches, and panel submissions, ensuring they are strategic, persuasive, and client-focused.
Craft compelling narratives: Develop executive summaries, case studies, team bios, and pursuit narratives that position McGuireWoods distinctively and speak directly to client priorities.
Shape strategy and execution: Define pursuit objectives, timelines, and win themes, guiding cross-practice teams with authority and clarity under tight deadlines.
Serve as a strategic advisor: Partner with lawyers and Marketing & Business Development leadership to shape competitive strategies for RFPs, pitches, and panel processes, including auctions.
Influence and collaborate across the firm: Build strong working relationships with partners, finance, and other stakeholders to integrate substantive expertise and client insights into winning materials.
Drive operational excellence: Standardize workflows, refine templates, and lead continuous improvement in the firm’s pursuit function.
Leverage technology and AI: Use platforms like Foundation and generative AI tools to streamline drafting, automate content, and accelerate the delivery of consistent, high-quality proposals.
RFP Platform Expertise: Demonstrates proficiency in managing and optimizing RFP platforms such as PERSUIT and Priori, with a focus on driving strategic outcomes and efficient responses.
Measure performance and outcomes: Track pursuit activity, win/loss data, and client feedback, turning insights into actionable strategies for department and firm leadership.
Maintain and elevate firm content: Lead the upkeep of proposal libraries, experience databases, and templates, ensuring the highest standards of quality and readiness.